The Edithvale hide is permanently closed, isn’t it? Where is this one in relation to it, do we have access, and is the location suitable?
http://m.smh.com.au/entertainment/art-and-design/inspired-by-the-hides-of-marsh-20120412-1wwd6.html
I have to say the texture of the walls reminds me more of the ripples on the sea floor rather than rhinoceros skin, but it’s an architectural review, so not to be taken too seriously.
Peter Shute
Well I hope it turns out as good as the old hide. It would be a pity to have such a permanent structure in a useless spot.
Peter Shute
Yes, it’s not far at all. That one time I was in the centre (for the official launch) the water levels were fairly high and they had not yet gotten permission to remove some of the melaleucas that were growing outside the windows and hiding some of the view, so I don’t know what the prospects are for suitable habitat for crakes and waders viewable from the centre.
Regards, Tania
Thanks for that. So that would be about 300m up the road? Is there good mud there for viewing birds?
Peter Shute
Hi Peter,
The Discovery Centre has been built in what was previously the overflow carpark which is the one that is further away from the bay than the carpark with the bird hide and viewing platform. The hide is permanently closed due to safety issues and Melbourne Water have decided that they don’t have the money to rebuild it. I believe the current proposal is to expand the viewing platform and allow the Discovery Centre to be open on Sunday afternoons as long as it staffed by volunteers from Friends of Edithvale Wetlands. The problem with the location of the centre is that there is a chance of sun glare in the afternoons due to the placement of the building, however I have only been inside once, in the morning.
Regards, Tania